Event Division Lead

Position Summary

As the Event Division Lead, you will oversee the planning, production, and execution of high-impact entertainment events for Japanese, U.S., and global clients.

Based in Los Angeles, you will support the Event Division Manager while providing cross-functional oversight for multiple event projects. This division is responsible for producing panels, exhibition booths, screenings, and brand activations at major conventions and international venues.

We are seeking a hands-on producer who also possesses strategic leadership capabilities. The ideal candidate has deep experience in event production, strong vendor and client management skills, and a genuine passion for anime, games, and entertainment IPs. You will serve as the bridge between creative and operations, collaborating closely with PR, Social Media Marketing, Creative, and Business Development (BD) divisions.

Requirements

1. Project Leadership & Execution

• Lead project-level execution based on the division goals and service standards defined by the Event Division Manager.
• Manage budget and cost control for assigned projects, ensuring financial efficiency.
• Utilize existing department workflows and guidelines, providing proactive suggestions for improvement as needed.
• Oversee staffing plans and vendor rosters to ensure scalability for peak event seasons.
• Provide operational direction and growth support to project team members (producers and coordinators).
• Represent the division in client presentations and inter-departmental planning meetings.

2. Event Planning & Creative Development

• Translate client objectives into strategic event plans that maximize fan engagement and brand impact.
• Lead creative concept development for panels, booths, premieres, and launch events.
• Supervise the creation of proposals, budget estimates, and project timelines.
• Align event strategy with PR and digital campaigns to ensure seamless cross-channel integration.

3. Panel / Stage Event Production (Execution Leadership)

• Direct run-of-show, stage direction, and technical coordination (A/V, lighting, FX).
• Oversee rehearsals, talent coordination (voice actors, creators, influencers, MCs), and on-site operations.
• Manage interpreter assignments and coordinate press access with the PR Division.
• Partner with the Social Media Marketing Division for real-time reporting and fan interaction.
• Ensure brand consistency, safety, and strict schedule adherence during live execution.

4. Booth Planning & Production

• Oversee creative concepting, spatial design, traffic flow, and fabrication.
• Supervise booth construction, installation, and teardown in collaboration with fabricators and logistics vendors.
• Integrate experiential elements (photo ops, AR stations, giveaways, demo areas) to enhance fan engagement.
• Collaborate with the Creative Division on visual design and motion assets.
• Coordinate on-site PR activities and social media activations.
• Manage safety protocols, staff briefings, and daily on-site operations.

5. Launch / Premiere Event Management

• Plan and execute screenings, premieres, and collaboration activations.
• Manage venue selection, permit applications, guest logistics, red-carpet setup, and press coverage.
• Ensure cohesive storytelling through event themes, staging, and visual identity.

6. Team & Vendor Management

• Coordinate collaboration with external partners and freelancers based on project requirements.
• Build and maintain domestic and international vendor networks, including contract and cost negotiations.
• Monitor vendor progress for assigned projects to ensure quality and timely delivery.
• Facilitate project status meetings and cross-functional syncs as needed.

7. Cross-Department Collaboration & Client Relations

• Partner with the PR Division for press relations and earned media opportunities.
• Coordinate with the Social Media Marketing Division on content plans and live coverage.
• Work with the Creative Division on design direction and asset production.
• Support the Business Development Division in pitching, budgeting, and defining the scope of work (SOW).
• Maintain transparent and proactive communication with clients throughout all project phases.

8. Post-Event Analysis & Continuous Improvement

• Deliver comprehensive event reports including attendance, media reach, social metrics, and ROI.
• Lead internal post-mortem sessions to identify lessons learned and improve future processes.
• Manage the archive of creative assets, event photos/videos, and operational documentation.
• Stay informed on industry trends and emerging technologies to enhance future event experiences.

Qualifications

Required:

• Proven experience in planning, producing, and managing panels and booths at convention events.
• Deep knowledge of U.S. event logistics, vendor management, permit processes, and safety regulations.
• Demonstrated track record of leading execution and coordinating multiple stakeholders to deliver successful events.
• Strong financial sense with experience in project-based budget management and cost control.
• Exceptional organizational skills and a strong client-service mindset.
• Business-level English fluency (Required); Japanese proficiency is a plus.
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally as required by projects.

Preferred:

• Eagerness to build and expand a growing division within an international agency.
• A strong passion for anime, games, film, and pop culture.
• Ability to remain calm under high pressure and lead a team effectively.
• A balance of leadership and flexible problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication skills to work smoothly across U.S., Japanese, and international teams.
• High creative thinking ability to conceptualize attention-grabbing events.
• Experience in stage production, spatial design, or video production is a plus.

Benefits

A number of programs cover all employees in the manner prescribed by law. Additionally, 33 USA Inc. provides several Company-designated benefit programs.

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
• Hybrid Work Model
• While we currently offer this hybrid arrangement, please note that our work model may evolve to meet changing business needs. The company reserves the right to modify work arrangements at its sole discretion. We appreciate your understanding and flexibility as we continually assess and optimize our work environment.